[Cerek the Barbaric]

I've been browsing this thread all day and I'm going to do something I normally don't do. I'm going to RANT a little.

There is an issue that has been raised in this thread that I feel very strongly about....and I disagree even more strongly with the Responses to this issue.

I'm talking about the special avatars for members who choose to donate monthly.

There has been a LOT of objections to this, as it would create an elitist caste system that would make others feel "less" important. I completely disagree with this view.

It is standard business practice (not to mention common courtesy) to acknowledge any person, business, or corporation that makes a donation to a cause or a company. Ziroc is very good about doing this. He ALWAYS gives public thanks to everyone who "helps out" - and that is more than enough for those who donate once, twice, or even occassionally.

BUT, if a member makes a commitment to send money every single month to Ziroc to keep IronWorks running, that deserves special recognition.

Does it mean the opinions of those without special avatars will be "less" worthy - absolutely not. ALL opinions, remarks, and comments would STILL be treated equally, regardless of which avatar a member has or how many posts are listed in their profile.

If someone DID try to "tout their clout" because of a special avatar, I'm sure Ziroc would handle the problem immediately.

As I said earlier, I would be included in the "Have Nots", because I simply can't contribute every month. That certainly doesn't make me feel any less important as a member here and I would not be bothered by the avatars of the "Haves" that made an ongoing commitment to Ziroc. More power to them and thank you for helping keep IronWorks up and running for ALL of us.

Finally, I think it is shameful that members would threaten to leave IronWorks if this supposed "caste system" were initiated. I include myself in this. I was trying to say that I would stop visiting Ironworks if - and only if - I had to pay for the privilege, but I deeply regret saying even that.

I am especially disappointed that a moderator would threaten to leave Ironworks over this decision. Ziroc is faced with a very difficult dilemma and it is extremely unfair to force him to choose between rewarding monthly contributers (in a very nominal way) or losing a moderator.

OK, RANT mode is off and the barbarian flambe' can now begin.

I understand that I am in the minority on this issue and I support any decision Ziroc makes. I also understand - and respect - the opposing viewpoints that have been voiced, I just disagree with them.